Abercrombie & Kent will launch a "Design Your Day" program in 2020 that will give guests on all of its small group journeys three different excursion options per day, including one for more active guests.
It's a trend that's been growing across the luxury and upscale travel industry, particularly among upscale river cruise operators, which like most guided trips, have traditionally had one set itinerary for everyone.
But the traditional tours of museums and historical or famous sites are no longer enough for today's upscale tourists. Travelers of all ages and sizes want more local, active and authentic experiences, from bike tours and hikes to local cooking classes and visits to unique neighborhoods, lesser-known art studios, even private homes.
"The demand for more customization led us to add Design Your Day options to every A&K Luxury Small Group Journeys," A&K USA President Keith Baron said in announcing the program, adding that the idea was first introduced on A&K's Private Jet Journeys.
Beginning next year, all of A&K's Luxury Small Group Journeys will offer the choices, he said.
In Shanghai, for instance, guests will have the choice of exploring the West Bund Art Center, savoring street food or walking through Shanghai's historic Jewish Quarter. In Southern Africa, they can visit a rural village in Zimbabwe, take a private tour of an artisan jewelry studio or bike along the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls. In Australia, guests can choose between a cruise around Sydney Harbor, a bike tour with a local guide or a walk through the historic Rocks District, Sydney's oldest neighborhood.
A&K also released a 2020 preview of dates and prices for its 20-most requested Luxury Small Group Journeys, including a new itinerary that combines Australia & New Zealand.
The company said it is releasing the dates earlier than usual because, in addition to increased demand for more excursion options, Baron said the company has noticed that luxury travelers are booking earlier.
"Our guests are booking Luxury Small Group Journeys a full month earlier this year -- on average eight months in advance while certain popular destinations like Egypt and East Africa require even longer lead times to secure preferred dates."
The company encourages agents to book early, noting that all trips are guaranteed with a minimum of two guests.